In some ways this exceeded my expectations, and in others--it was to be expected.  I was really happy to see that it's solid wood; this makes it nicer than any Ikea piece so I was already sold.  The wood has a few dings, and it's not perfectly crafted.  But it's inexpensive!  I don't expect solid wood inexpensive furniture to be perfect.  Looks great with our mid-century modern living room.